Digital deposition and evidence recording system

ABSTRACT

Embodiments include a modular video recording system. The system includes a first module for supporting a primary input to be recorded, such as from a first camera. A second, third, or other combination of modules may also be used to support or add additional inputs to be recorded. Any of the modules may support control features, switcher features, and other electronics and components to fully integrate the modules as additional modules are added to the system.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 62/064,200,filed Oct. 15, 2014, which is incorporated by reference in its entiretyinto this application.

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, the legal profession uses depositions to obtaintestimony from witnesses that may be used to gather evidence or tosupport their case during trial. Originally, the deposition was verbal,and a copy of the interaction was transcribed by a court reported tocreate a written record of the testimony. As technology advanced, insome cases, the deposition was also recorded to preserve the non-verbalresponses of the witness.

Today, the verbal testimony is still captured by a court recorder. Thecourt recorded maintains a written record of what is said during thedeposition. Today, the non-verbal and/or visual testimony is generallycaptured separately by a videographer. The videographer typically setsup a camera on the deponent and coordinates with the court recorder torecord the entire deposition experience. The videographer typically setsup different video recorders, microphones, and other equipment that mustbe positioned, maintained, and run independently during the deposition.Given the complexity of the system involved, whenever the record isstarted or stopped, it is not instantaneous to go on and off record.Instead, the different recording systems must be positioned andindividually turned on and off. Configuring and initiating the firstsession is also immensely time consuming as each of the cameras andmicrophones need to be individually set up and configured to obtain theproper recorded account. It is also difficult to manage the system whena deponent moves or shifts during the exchange as the videographer mustphysically adjust one or more cameras to center the video on thedeponent. The videographer may therefore become a substantialdistraction or time consuming hindrance as they move around the roomrepositioning and checking various video screens and starting andstopping the various components of the system.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments described herein provide a modular video systemfor recording events. The modular video system is configured to allowminimal set up and configuration even as additional equipment is added.Exemplary embodiments therefore provide a primary module for controllinga primary camera and recorder. A secondary module may be included toprovide switching control between the camera of primary module andanother input source either the switcher module or a third module,control of the one or more additional source inputs, individualrecording from the one or more additional inputs, recording of a realtime edited feed including combinations from the primary camera and theone or more additional input sources, and combinations thereof oradditionally described herein. The system may expand the system byadding one or more additional sources through either the switcher moduleor a third module.

DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1, 1A-2, and 1A-3 illustrate a front perspective, sideperspective, and rear perspective view of exemplary embodiments of aprimary module comprising an exemplary control case for the deponentcamera and one or more interfaces described herein.

FIGS. 1B-1 and 1B-2 illustrate a front perspective and side perspectiveview of exemplary embodiments of a secondary module comprising asecondary control case for additional deposition and evidence recordingoptions as described herein. In FIG. 1B-1 the secondary module iscoupled to the primary module, while FIG. 1B-2 the secondary module isuncoupled.

FIGS. 1C-1 and 1C-2 illustrate a deployed perspective view and collapsedperspective view of a third module comprising display and recordingoptions as described herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary display including a plurality of displayregions.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary deployed arrangement of the one or moremodules and system components described herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a display device havingdedicated control regions for manipulating and/or controlling one ormore images on one or more of the display devices.

FIG. 5A is an exemplary cart for transporting the modules describedherein. FIG. 5B is an exemplary connectable arrangement of the modulesfor transport.

DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description illustrates by way of example, not byway of limitation, the principles of the invention. This descriptionwill clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use theinvention, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations,alternatives and uses of the invention, including what is presentlybelieved to be the best mode of carrying out the invention. It should beunderstood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematicrepresentations of exemplary embodiments of the invention, and are notlimiting of the present invention nor are they necessarily drawn toscale.

Exemplary embodiments provided herein permit a module and integrateddeposition system for recording a complete deposition exchange.Exemplary methods include recording a deposition exchange, creating adeposition event record, providing real time editing of a depositionvideo record.

Although embodiments of the invention may be described and illustratedherein in terms of a legal deposition exchange, it should be understoodthat embodiments of this invention are not so limited, but areadditionally applicable to other recording situations. Exemplaryembodiments may be used when a module deployable system is desired forusing one or more inputs to create a video record. Exemplary embodimentsare also described in terms of one or more modules. Componentsassociated with each of the exemplary modules are not intended to belimiting. It is understood that components and/or features associatedwith any one module may be moved to, removed from, separated across,integrated into, duplicated in any other module, or otherwisedistributed in any combination across any one or more modules.

FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-2 illustrate an exemplary modular deposition andevidence recording system according to embodiments described herein. Thesystem includes a first primary module component as illustrated in FIGS.1A-1 to 1A-3 comprising the control case for the deponent camera and oneor more interfaces described herein. The system may include a secondarymodule component as illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1 to 1B-2 comprising asecondary control case for the additional deposition and evidencerecording, such as that included in the third module. The system mayinclude a third module component as illustrated in FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-2comprising video display and evidence recording interfaces as describedherein.

FIGS. 1A-1 to 1A-3 illustrate a front perspective, side perspective, andrear perspective view of exemplary embodiments of a primary modulecomprising an exemplary control case for the deponent camera and one ormore interfaces described herein. The primary module may include a setof primary feature of the modular deposition and evidence recordingsystem. Exemplary features are illustrative only. Exemplary features mayinclude, camera control functions, recording control functions, displayfunctions, and one or more connection interfaces to permit communicationwith other systems. Features described herein in this or any module maybe added, duplicated, removed, integrated, separated, or moved from oneto another of the modules and remain within the scope of the presentinvention. Other features may also be added to achieve the desiredcombination of functions and flexibility to record the entire depositionexperience, and any part thereof.

An exemplary primary module 10 may include one or more recording devicesto record the deposition captured by the deposition and evidencerecording system. For example, a first recording device 13 may becoupled to a camera (see FIG. 3) to record the images directly from thecamera. One or more second recording device 18 may record a duplicate ofthe images directly from the camera or from the first recording device.The one or more second recording device(s) may also or alternativelyrecord an on-the fly edited version of the deposition events altered bythe videographer during the deposition. Exemplary embodiments of on thefly editing and recording are described further herein.

The first recording device 13 may be configured to capture an unalteredor altered image from the camera. Typically, display equipment used inthe court setting are generally older, and have different aspect ratiosfrom those of the more up to date recording systems. The recordingcamera may therefore capture wide screen images, while the displaydevices of the court present standard images. Exemplary embodiments ofthe deposition and evidence recording system therefore receive imageformats in one aspect ratio and crop the image or manipulate the imageto create and save a second, different aspect ratio. In an exemplaryembodiment, the deposition and evidence recording system takes a signalfrom the camera, usually a wide screen aspect image, and manipulatesand/or crops the image into a desired, common output, such as a standardaspect image. The first recording device 13 may save the originalunaltered feed from the video camera, or may save the modified feed inthe desired format and image aspect ratio. The first recording device 13may include start and stop controls for manually controlling when therecording device records the native or altered feed from the videocamera. The start and stop controls may be directly on the recordingdevice and/or may be on a control panel of the deposition and evidencerecording system. The first recording device 13 may also include anindicator, such as one or more LED lights, to visually confirm to a userwhen the recording device is on, recording, not recording, off, and anycombination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the first recordingdevice is powered by AC power to the deposition and evidence recordingsystem.

The second recording device 18 may be a back-up recorder that may recorda duplicate of the first recording device or may record another sourceor an altered video feed from one or more sources. The second recordingdevice 18 may be automatically and/or manually controlled. In anexemplary embodiment, the second recording device 18 comprises acontroller to set the recorded to record when the primary recorded isrecording. The deposition and evidence recording system is thereforeconfigured such that whenever the first recorder is recording, thesecond recording device is also recording without the user separatelystarting the second recording device. Similarly, the deposition andevidence recording system is configured such that the second recordingsystem automatically turns off when the first recording device is turnedoff, without the second recording device being manually manipulated. Inan exemplary embodiment, the second recording device also oralternatively includes a manual control such that the second recordingdevice may be recording even if the first recording device is notrecording. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary recording devicemay comprise a battery, such that the second recording device, such thatit is not harmed by a loss of power. In an exemplary embodiment, thesecond recording device is configured to turn off recording when an ACpower loss is experienced by the deposition and evidence recordingsystem.

The recording devices may be for audio, video, or a combination thereof.In an exemplary embodiment, the deposition and evidence recording systemmay include an audio recorder 32. The audio recorder 32 may beconfigured to save an output in a format consistent with a courtreporter's system, such that a court reporter can download a completedaudio file at the conclusion of the deposition directly from the module.

Exemplary embodiments of the recording systems permit continuous,no-break technology that allows continuous unlimited video recording,eliminating the necessity for the videographer to interrupt thedeposition proceedings to change media units or DVDs. In an exemplaryembodiment, the recording device may be a digital recorder that recordsdirectly to a memory location, which allows continuous recording for atleast 8 hours, saving the recording in a digital format. The digitalrecorders may record in any digital format to a removable ordownloadable medium, such as to a SD card, SSD card, thumb drive, localmemory space, etc.

An exemplary primary module 10 may include one or more user interfacesto display information captured by the modular deposition and evidencerecording system. For example, a first display 12 may be included on afirst recording device 13. The first display 12 may display the imagesreceived from the camera or the image as would be recorded, such as analtered video image as described above to change an aspect ratio from avideo feed to a desired format or aspect ratio. In an exemplaryembodiment, the first display 12 is configured to display the image asreceived from the camera. The first display 12 is also configured toindicate the image that is to be recorded, or to be incorporated intothe finished recording. For example, the displayed image may includelines or other indicators to show what portion of the image is or willbe cropped on the recorded device or on the final product. In anexemplary embodiment, the display shows a full screen aspect image andincludes vertical lines indicating an image at a standard aspect ratio.Therefore, a videographer, may see images at the periphery of therecorded image as seen from the camera. This area may be recorded andcropped during final production editing by the videographer, or may beedited in real time by the system recorder. The videographer maytherefore reposition the camera on the deponent if other objects beginto encroach on an edge of the image before they are shown on the finalimage.

An exemplary primary module 10 may include a second display 14 forshowing one or more depictions of the video in process in a centrallocation. FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary display including a pluralityof display regions. Each of the plurality of display regions isconfigured to display one or more images from one or more input devices,and/or one or more on the fly edited video for immediate production ornear finished and immediate production. For example, as shown, a firstdisplay region may display the image as captured from a first cameradirected at a deponent; a second display region may display the image ascaptured from a document or evidence camera; a third display region (notshown) may display the image as captured from a second camera, such asmay be directed at the questioning attorney, another evidence source, orelsewhere. A final display region may display an image as manipulated bythe videographer to create a semi-final or edited video streamcomprising different images from the one or more sources as selecteddynamically, in real time, as described herein. For example, asdescribed herein, the videographer may select directly from one or morevideo sources (such as those shown in display regions one throughthree). The videographer may also select a combination of video sources,such as by using a picture in picture arrangement. The videographer mayselect in real time a combination of sources and/or image arrangementsthat make the most sense given the current testimony, topics ofdiscussion, action of the deponent and interacting attorney, displayedevidence, and available sources.

An exemplary primary module 10 may also include other displayinformation relevant to the recording. For example, an audio bar 16 mayindicate the feedback received on one, two, or more audio channels asdetected through one or more microphones. Other feedback interfaces mayinclude, for example, spectral analysis, such a frequency, amplitude,range, etc., associated with a video image. The contrast, brightness,lighting, arrangement, etc. may be altered through the control consoleor at the associated equipment to adjust the image as desired.

An exemplary primary module 10 may also include control features tocontrol one or more system components and/or image and/or audio input,output, or stream. For example, the module 10 may include a mixer 28 foradjusting the audio signal received from one or more microphones. Themodule may include one or more video controller 22, 24 for controller adirection, tip/tilt, and/or zoon of a camera. Controls may be in anyinput form, such as a joystick, buttons, track ball, touch pad, wheel,switch, etc. The console may include one set of controls that maycontrol one of a plurality of camera inputs, or may include a dedicatedset of controls per camera input. The module may include one or moreselection buttons 26 for toggling between the respective availablecameras and alternative display arrangements. For example, the systemmay be configured that a primary image will be maintained on the displayas a primary image. The primary image may be that of the deponent. Theselection button 26 may then be pushed to alternate the displayed, onthe fly edited image to be either that of the deponent or that of apicture in picture including the deponent and an image from anothercamera, such as that displaying evidence. The videographer may thereforeselect on the fly combinations of images to record. In an exemplaryembodiment, the videographer may select a deponent when the deponent isasking questions. The videographer may select a picture in picturecombination of deponent and evidence, when the deponent is looking atsomething presented by the questioning attorney. Therefore, the videocan capture the most relevant combination of information including thedeponent and/or whatever the deponent sees or is discussing.

The audio mixer may have voice limiters for consistent sound, audiodistribution amplifiers with calibrated line/mic level correction feedto each device and select monitoring of each audio and video component.There may be a stereo audio delay unit to allow synchronization of thelive audio with the delayed video being recorded in any of the exemplarymodules.

An exemplary embodiment includes one or more universal control button(s)20. The universal control button may be used to simultaneously turn on,turn off, pause, or restart a recording session across allrecording/display devices. For example, if the system is using aplurality of cameras and/or a plurality of recorders to record adeponent, an evidentiary document, other evidence, the questioningattorney, and any combination thereof, the videographer may press theuniversal control button to start each of the recording devices and/orcameras simultaneously. This permits the start, stop, and pausing of asession to occur quickly and efficiently. Also, each of the recordingdevices will have the same time log/stamp for easier video alignment andediting. Conventionally, when a videographer must individually andsequentially turn on and off respective devices, the videographer cannotsimply navigate to the same time stop on the respective recordings toget to the same occurrence on each of the videos. Therefore, if thevideographer wants to align the videos to permit after recordingediting, the videographer must verifying the time delay between videosbefore such editing can occur.

The primary module 10 may also be equipped with an on-board portablecomputer to record entries, to connect and control the various recorderand components and to process and encode video files in the field. Thecomputer also allows the streaming of deposition video to remotelocations via video conferencing and enables remote technical supportaccess to the system. The computer may be any suitable computer for thesystem, including a compact laptop or tablet, mounted on a swing armthat folds up and stores over the microphone mixer and swings outboardfor use during the deposition. This computer is connected to an on-boardUSB hub and ethernet router/network enabling connection to allelectronic devices and the internet.

Other features may also be included within the exemplary primary module10. For example, stands or mounts 10 may be included to supportadditional components. As shown, a mount 30 may be pivotally coupled tothe module to permit a docking station, such as that for a laptop ortablet to be integrated into the module. The module may include otherinput/output interfaces to permit expanded use or coupling of externaldevices. In an exemplary embodiment, the module may include a telephonejack to send and receive signals through the module. In an exemplaryembodiment, the module may include a microphone and/or speakers suchthat the system may permit a teleconference through the device. In anexemplary embodiment, the module may include an audio or video jack topermit the receipt or transmission of one or more video or audiosignals. The module may also include internet or other networkconnection jack for communication electronically. Embodiments may alsoinclude communication through Voice Over IP (VOW). Other input/outputinterfaces such as universal serial bus (USB), serial ports (RS232), RedGreen Blue (RGB) video, co-ax, audio/video, or other ports may beincluded to support communication with one or more other devices.

Such a configuration may permit remote depositions. In an exemplaryembodiment, the received audio signal may be directly recorded from thesignal input to the speaker as it is being broadcast from the speakerfor a clearer audio recording. The system may therefore be used tosupport remote video conferencing through an input/output interface ormay permit real-time or semi-real time streaming of one or more of therecorded or received video and/or audio signals, such as, for example,the on the fly edited video composition.

Exemplary embodiments of the primary module 10 include a camera systemfor recording a deponent. The recording system may be a remotecontrolled compact high-definition POV (Point Of View) camera connectedvia a single camera cable to a high-definition video recorder. In thisembodiment, all camera functions may be remotely controlled through theprimary console interface and controls. The compact POV camera may beinstalled on a compact remote controlled motorized pan and tilt unit.The variable speed pan and tilt may be controlled with a console mountedjoystick (or other user control interface) for up/down/left/right anddiagonal in all directions. The pan and tilt speed may be controlled bya console mounted speed control dial that adjusts the up/down/left/rightmovement speed. The POV camera's variable speed zoom lens is controlledby a console mounted joystick (or other user control interface) forin/out. The zoom lens speed may be controlled by how much pressure isplaced on the joystick: a little pressure will yield a very slow zoomand more pressure will zoom more quickly, in or out. This unparalleledcamera control enables the videographer to react and implement cameraadjustments with unprecedented speed and accuracy, much sooner than atypical videographer reaching for a tripod mounted camera.

The exemplary camera system may comprise a camera stand including avertical telescoping stand with a crows foot type base requiring a muchsmaller footprint that is easy to position. An adjustable quick releaseenables quick installation and removal of the P&T head and camera. Thecontemplated primary console 10 connects to the P&T camera via a cameraumbilical cable carrying the camera signal and camera remote controlfunctions, as well as the P&T control and power. There may also be powerrun for an optional camera light.

With the use of the camera umbilical cable, the compact camera andtripod combination can be placed away from the videographer and muchcloser to the questioning attorney allowing a more direct angle of thedeponent. Accordingly, the position of the camera relative to thedeponent can be selected for the best shot composition and not for theconvenience of controlling the camera.

An exemplary primary module 10 may include one or more connectors, forsending and retrieving data from the module. In an exemplary embodiment,one or more connectors are grouped into one or more conduits for easycontrol, manipulation, and positioning of the connectors within theconduit. The conduits may be groups, such as, by their purpose orintended location. For example, a camera conduit may group all of thenecessary cords needed between the module and the camera. In anexemplary embodiment, a camera conduit includes one or more connectorsfor connecting to a camera for controlling the camera (such as zoom,power, recording), for controlling the position of the camera platform(such as the tilt and rotation), and for providing power to the camera.In an exemplary embodiment, a court reporter conduit includes a cablewith a headphone jack at a terminal end to permit the court reporter toplug into the microphone/audio feeds, an analog and/or digital audiojack to permit the stenographer's machine to receive an audio signal,USB cable to permit the court reporter to plug into the audio recorder32 to download the desired audio file, etc. An exemplary embodiment, anaudio conduit is provided for grouping extra-long, such as 25 foot orlonger, light weight cables to support the microphones, such as thoseworn by the deponent, questioning attorney, or other attorney(s). Themodule may also include a power cord for receiving and providing powerto one or more of the components supported thereby.

Conventionally, a videographer provides the court reporter a live audiofeed and/or a digital audio recording of the deposition proceedings, forreference. In an exemplary embodiment, the court reporter's conduit maytherefore be a multi-cable snake that carries audio and USB signals tothe reporter's station. The conduit bundles one or more cables thatcarries a two channel multi-track audio being recorded on the video, inseveral audio levels to ensure compatibility with more reporters. Theadjustable audio is provided at microphone and line levels via a stereomini cable that plugs into any laptop via the microphone/audio inputjack with easy integration into the reporter's existing stenographysoftware. There is also a headphone jack that provides undelayed audiofor headphone monitoring. There is also a USB digital audio feed directfrom the audio mixer providing a full digital live audio signal usinggeneric USB audio drivers standard on most computers.

If the reporter does not use the live audio or headphone feeds, thevideographer can create a MP3 or WAV digital audio recording fordelivery to the reporter via USB cable. A USB cable may therefore belooped through the reporter's cable conduit and provide the reporter aUSB connection. Normally, the USB cable loops power from the primarymodule to the USB powered digital audio recorder. At the conclusion ofthe deposition, the reporter simply unplugs the looping connection, andplugs the USB cable into her laptop. This powers up the USB digitalaudio recorder and automatically presents the recorder's data folder forcopying to the reporter's computer.

In an exemplary embodiment, the primary module 10 may include aplurality of microphones for receiving audio signals from one or moresources. In an exemplary embodiment at least three microphones areprovided for exemplary participants in the deposition (e.g. thedeponent, the questioning attorney, and the defending attorney). In anexemplary embodiment, the system is configured to record in stereo, oron two separate audio channels. The microphones may be configured torecord on one, the other, or both of the audio channels. For example,the microphone from the witness may be configured to record on bothaudio channels, while the microphones to each of the attorneys areconfigured to record on single opposite channels.

A contemplated system features at least two independent audio channels,configurable into several recording modes on the fly, including but notlimited to, 1 and 2 channel monaural, 2 channel stereo and 2 channelmulti-track. The one and two channel monaural recording mode is thecurrent standard of the industry placing all deposition participants onthe same audio channel(s). In this mode, if an attorney and the deponentspeak simultaneously, their audio is merged into a single recorded audiotrack, usually resulting in a poor or unintelligible audio record. Oncethis unintelligible recording is created, there is typically no solutionto recover or separate the audio and many times enhancement is useless.

Exemplary embodiments described herein produces a realistic stereorecording of the deposition, placing the participant's audio in therespective sound field position, center, left and right, as if theviewer were sitting in the room across from the deponent. Exemplaryembodiments address the typical catastrophic problem of participantsspeaking at the same time, which is usually associated with an attorneyinterjecting an objection between the question and deponent's answer.Many times this objection is spoken simultaneously over the deponent'sanswer, making the deponent's answer incomplete or unintelligible.

A contemplated two-channel stereo configuration records the deponent'saudio on both a first and second, or left and right audio channelssimultaneously, while the questioning attorney is recorded on a singlechannel and all other attorneys are recorded on the other channel. Ifthe objection is spoken simultaneously with the deponent's answer, theinterfering audio can typically be eliminated so the deponent's answerwill virtually always be clear and uninterrupted. The interfering audiocan be eliminated in one of two ways. The first method is performedduring the trial presentation, when the trial technologist momentarilymutes the respective audio channel (left or right) eliminating theoffending audio track, resulting in clear uninterrupted testimony. Thisrequires no advanced editing and is done on the fly during thepresentation with the help of a list or log of interfering audioinstances. Alternatively, computer video editing software can be used toremove the offending audio permanently, eliminating the need foron-the-fly adjustments in court. Log entries of audio interference maybe generated as disclosed herein.

An exemplary primary module 10 may include a housing or case forcontaining and/or supporting the exemplary features described herein.The exemplary components may be configured within system to provide easyset up. For example, the case may include a hinged lid. In an exemplaryembodiment, one or more of the display interfaces is positioned withinthe lid. When opened, the lid may be positioned to provide easy viewingof the depicted images. A base portion of the module may include one ormore of the controls or other features described herein. The system maytherefore simply be opened, positioned, and plugged in to provideefficient set up.

An exemplary primary module 10 may also include an interface forcoupling one or more other modular components such as those describedherein. The coupling interface may include communication interfaces suchthat the additional modules may communicate with the primary module,and/or physically attach and/or support the one or more added modules.

An exemplary primary module includes controls and connections to supportthe primary camera for the deponent and a plurality of microphones forall participants. The primary module may therefore be configured tosupport the simplest video deposition arrangement. Exemplary embodimentsof the switcher module permit the expansion of the primary module tosupport addition cameras, displays, input/outputs, etc. FIGS. 1B-1 and1B-2 illustrate a front perspective and side perspective view ofexemplary embodiments of a secondary module comprising a secondaryswitcher module for additional deposition and evidence recording optionsas described herein.

In an exemplary embodiment, the switcher module 100 includes one or moredisplays 102 to display a video feed from the one or more additionalcameras or visual inputs, and/or one or more on the fly edited and/orcombined video feeds. A single display may be used to display any one ofa plurality of video inputs, or a separate display or portion of thedisplay may be used to correlate a given display or portion thereof to agiven input. In an exemplary embodiment, the switcher module 100includes a first display 124 (integrated with a recording device) thatdisplays a first video image. A second display 102 may provide a largerdisplay for showing the first video image or a separate second videoimage. For example, a first display 124 may be configured to display araw video image from a camera or other visual input source, while thesecond display 102 may be configured to display a combined or on the flyedited version or variable selected combination of one or more inputvideo feeds. The one or more displays may be configured to display therecorded image of one or more recording devices 108, 110. Similar to theprimary module, the switcher module 100 may include a primary recordingdevice 108 and back up recording device 110. In another example, therecording device 108 may be configured to display and record the outputfrom the switcher module (i.e. the real time edited video combination),while the back up recorder 110 creates a duplicate recording of the 108recording, while the display 102 can be configured to display any inputsource. The recording devices may record the same video stream or mayrecord different video streams. The recording devices may be manually orautomatically controlled, and may or may not be coupled such thatcontrol of one controls one or more other recording devices. Therecording devices may be battery operated to provide an uninterruptedrecording during power interruptions. In an exemplary embodiment, thesecondary recording device may comprise a battery, such that the secondrecording device, such that it is not harmed by a loss of power. In anexemplary embodiment, the second recording device is configured to turnoff recording when an AC power loss is experienced by the deposition andevidence recording system.

In an exemplary embodiment, the switcher module 100 also includes one ormore controls 104, 106. The controls 104, 106 may include buttons,toggles, switches, joy stick, touch pad, track ball, other inputdevices, and any combination thereof to control the one or more otherinput/output devices connected through the switcher module 100. Thecontrols may be used to select the on the fly edited configuration of anintermediate video stream, such as selecting a primary image fordisplay, a combination of images to display, a picture in picturearrangement, etc. The controls may also be used specifically manipulate,control, or otherwise provide input to the coupled input device. Forexample, the controllers may rotate, zoom, or otherwise orient anadditional camera coupled through the switcher module. The controls maybe used to select a given input and couple control to the primarymodule. For example, a first additional camera may be selected at theswitcher module, which permits control of the first additional camerathrough the controls 22, 24 of the primary module 10. In an exemplaryembodiment, a first and second control pads 104, 106 are rotatablyconnected about a hinge, such that an extension panel 106 may rotate andexpand the control console and provide access to the controls of bothpanels 104, 106. For example, control pad 104 may comprise a switcher toselect the output for the switcher module, while control pad 106 may bea remote control for the plurality of displays (such as for theannotation feature described below 222), the remote control for theadditional camera (such as pan, tilt, and/or zoom for the documentcamera 208), and/or the video switcher described below with respect tothe third module 216. The controls may then stow to protect the controlinterface and provide a compact storage configuration of the module.

In an exemplary embodiment, the switcher module 100 also includes ahousing 122 for containing the electronics, input/output, and othercomponents of the switcher module. The housing includes a lid and baserotatable coupled for containing and storing the console components. Theswitcher module may be configured to have a low storage volumeconfiguration and a deployed configuration. The deployed configurationis configured such that the case supports the various components in ause position. For example, the lid may be configured to have aselectable position that supports one or more of the displays. Thehousing 122 may also include an exterior interface 120 for coupling theswitcher module 100 to the primary module 10. The exterior interface 120may have a mating interface for physically and directly coupling theswitcher module 100 to the primary module 100. Alternatively, or inaddition thereof, the exterior interface 120 may electronically couplethe switcher module 100 to the primary module 100. For example, one ormore connectors and/or cables may be used to couple the switcher moduleto the primary module to create the requisite electronic communicationsnecessary for the desired configuration and control of the system. Theprimary module may also or in addition thereto include a mated interfacethat similarly corresponds to the interface of the switcher module toprovide the desired physical and/or electronic connections.

FIGS. 1C-1 and 1C-2 illustrate a deployed perspective view and collapsedperspective view of a third module comprising display and input/outputoptions as described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, the thirdmodule 200 is used in conjunction with the switcher module 100. Forexample, the third module 200 may provide the video/audio feedscontrolled by the switcher module 100. In an exemplary embodiment, theswitcher module 200 includes one or more ports or connectors fordirectly receiving one or more video/audio signals.

In an exemplary embodiment, the third module 200 includes one or morevideo input devices, such as a camera 208. In an exemplary embodiment,the camera 208 is configured as a document or other evidence camera,although other or conventional video devices may be used in addition oralternatively thereto. The camera 208 may be communicatively coupled tothe third module 200 or switcher module 100, such as by wire or wirelesscommunication. Other input devices may be used or incorporated therein.In an exemplary embodiment, a mobile input device 218 may becommunicatively coupled to the third module 200 or switcher module 100.Other input devices 218 may include mobile devices, such as a smart TV,tablet, laptop, etc. The mobile device may permit wired or wirelesscommunication to the switcher module 100 or third module 200. The thirdmodule 200 may include one or more communication interfaces 212 topermit wired or wireless communication between the one or more inputdevices 208, 218 and the system.

In an exemplary embodiment, the third module 200 includes one or moredisplay devices 202, 204, 206. As shown, three display devices areincluded for each of the participants of the deposition (e.g. thedeponent, the questioning attorney, the defending attorney). The displaydevices may be used to show images from one or more of the inputsources. One or more controls communicatively coupled to the switchermodule 100 or third module 200 may be used to select which images aredisplayed on the one or more display devices. The one or more displaydevices may be controlled by the switcher module 100, the displaydevice, a remote controller, or other input/output device. As shown inFIG. 4, the display devices 202, 204, 206 may be mounted to the thirdmodule 200 by an articulating arm. The articulating arm may permitrotation, extension, and/or translation in three dimensions. As shown,the articulating arm includes a base coupled to the third module 200.The based permits rotation around a longitudinal axis of the base arm. Asecond arm is pivotally coupled to the base, while a third arm isrotationally and pivotally coupled to the second arm. As shown, theconnection between the second arm and third arm includes two separatepivotal axis and at least one separate rotational axis. The third armthen couples to the monitor through another set of pivotal, rotations,and/or extendable connection. Any combination of articulating arm may beused that can be configured or positioned to compactly fit within aclosed third module and deployed to position the display devices in adesirable display configuration (such as that illustrated in FIG. 3.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display devices are configured such thatone display is configured as a primary display and the other displays assecondary displays. The primary display may be used to control thesecondary displays. For example, the displays may be touch screenspermitting input through contact with the display screen. The primarydisplay may have controls or touch locations configured to project orshare the image from the primary display onto the secondary displays.Similarly, the primary display may be used to remove the projectedimage, or present a dark screen on the primary and/or secondarydisplays. The primary and secondary displays may also be similarlycontrolled through a controller communicatively coupled or physicallycoupled to the switcher module 100 or third module 200. In an exemplaryembodiment, the primary display is configured to always be on so that adocument or other evidence may be positioned and see before it is shown.When the evidence is ready to be shown, the system may be controlled bythe videographer (through the switcher module, for example) or by aremote control or control on the primary video display to display theprimary image on the other display devices.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a display device havingdedicated control regions for manipulating one or more images on one ormore of the display devices. In an exemplary embodiment, a touch inputdisplay may include a plurality of dedicated control regions. The touchinput is configured such that when a user touches one of the dedicatedcontrol regions, a setting or function of the one or more displaysand/or system is automatically set. For example, when a user presses theupper right corner, F, the screen may freeze the present image. Othercontrols may include, for example, undo (U), recall (R), save (S),clear/erase (E), highlight/pen toggle (H), and color selection (C). Inan exemplary embodiment, the touch screen may permit a user to annotatethe image on the screen. The user may therefore select a color and/orfeature, such as highlight (or toggle between highlight and pen), andthen incorporate lines, shapes, colors, and other markings orannotations on the displayed image. For example, a user may freeze animage on the screen, select circles to indicate positions on the frozenimage, change colors and draw lines or free forms on the image, and thensave the annotated image. The system may therefore save image asdisplayed on the one or more displays as the original image from aninput device and/or as the annotated image as seen on the displaydevice. The display device may also be cleared or changed between inputdevices such that different images may be viewed from different inputdevices, or a blank screen may be displayed for use as a white board forfree form creations. The different inputs from different displays may beaggregated to form a single image, such that a first user may addannotations from a first display device and a second user may addadditional annotation from a second display device, and the aggregatedimage displayed from and/or saved to the system.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the display devices have two inputsto the display device. A first input may include an image stream asreceived from the one or more input devices. For example, a first inputto the display devices may be from the evidence camera 208. The inputmay be selectable, such as for example, through one or more controls ofthe switch device. A second input may include a blank signal, forexample, for that of a black or white screen. The blank signal may beused such that a clean output is always received at the recording deviceand/or at the display device. In an exemplary embodiment, when a userpositions evidence to be captured at the evidence camera 208, a user,through the switcher module 100 or other controller, may display theimage on the display devices. The display may be linked to apicture-in-picture selection for the real time video editing, such thatan intermediate production video is created with a combination image ofthe deponent and displayed evidence on the screen. Once the discussionis removed from the recorded evidence, the user may deselect showing theimage on the display devices. The display devices may therefore show thesecond input signal of a black or white screen. The system mayautomatically or separately controlled to similarly remove the real timeincorporation of the picture in picture. Therefore, the real time editedversion of the video may include just the image as captured by thedeponent's camera. The exemplary configuration may therefore be used toprotect the inadvertent disclosure of information that may be accidentlydisplayed on an evidence camera as documents and other evidence isshuffled between exhibits. The blank screens displayed when evidence isnot being displayed also may be used to reduce distractions during thedeponent questioning.

In an exemplary embodiment, the switcher module may be used toswitch/transition between one or more video inputs or cameras of theswitcher module or third module for the picture in picture view. Thetransition may be initiated by the attorney pressing a button or thevideographer using a button mounted on the switcher module. In anexemplary embodiment, the switcher module includes selectable switchesfor type of transition, ie. dissolve, cut, key and PIP insert. Anothersingle button, or multi option control may be mounted at or communicatewith either the switcher module, third module, or remote control topermit control of the display device and viewing of the input from thethird module by the attorney.

The remote end connection of the third module may feature multiplehigh-definition digital video inputs that can be connected to documentcamera(s) or presentation computer(s) or other input devices. There maybe a digital video splitter that splits the signal that is showing theexhibit, to three or more participant monitors and the recordersdescribed herein. The participants may therefore view the exhibitselectronically as opposed to having paper copies. Exemplary embodimentsalso permit the secondary recording of the displayed images in inhigh-definition. Exemplary embodiments include a connection breakout boxin the third module that is the end of a 15′ cable and features a powertap for all devices and a digital video distribution amplifier to feedthe monitors and system components.

In an exemplary embodiment, the third module 200 may includeelectronics, components, and other components to support the integrationor the various modules and/or functions described herein. In anexemplary embodiment, the third module 200 may also include a videoprocessor such as an HDMI video distribution component 214, videoswitcher 216, annotation feature 222, server, computer processor, hotspot wireless communication console, network connection, router, etc.The third module 200 may also include a speaker 210 to play soundassociated with the one or more input devices. The system may beconfigured to capture and/or record the speaker signal at the source toprovide a clearer recording, instead of recording a sound signalprojected from the audio speaker and recaptured by a microphone. Thethird module 200 may also include one or more connectors for otherinput/output devices 220. Any combination of input/output deviceconnectors may be included to achieve a desired function. Input/outputdevice connections 220 may include connectors for power, data, and othertransfer. Exemplary embodiments may also include either a printer portand/or printer for providing a copy of evidence created or capturedduring the deposition exchange, such as from images generated by thereal time annotation of displayed images on the one or more displaydevices.

In an exemplary embodiment, the third module 200 comprises a housing forcontaining the components in a stowed configuration and a deployedconfiguration. The housing may comprise a removable lid and a base. Thebase may support and directly connect to one or more of the enclosedcomponents. The lid may be configured to support and couple to the basein alternative configurations to act as a stand of the base portion. Forexample, the lid may include a mated surface along a top and/or on oneor more lateral sides of the lid. The base may include a correspondingmated surface along its bottom surface for mating to the lid. The lidmay also include skid pads or other supports to retain and support thelid on the floor or other flat surface. Therefore, the lid may be usedwhen a table or other surface is not available for deploying the thirdmodule. The housing may include one or more extendable surface that mayact as additional support surfaces for the one or more other componentsor for use during the deposition. For example, an extendable portion mayslide out of a wall of the base to support one or more of the additionalcameras, such as for use with displaying evidence, such as documents.

FIG. 5A is an exemplary cart for transporting the modules describedherein. The cart may be configured to permit the arrangement of acomplete set of modular components to fit and be transported together.FIG. 5B is an exemplary connectable arrangement of the modules fortransport. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more modular unitsinclude attachable or mated surfaces to permit the direct attachment ofone modular component to another module component. One or more of themodular components may include wheels, such that an entire set ofmodular components may be attached and transported together withoutadditional equipment.

Exemplary embodiments described herein therefore provide a moduledigital recording system. Exemplary embodiments may also be used torecord a deposition session and permit on the fly editing of a recordedsession. Exemplary embodiments described herein include methods ofrecording a deposition, methods of on the fly editing of depositionvideo files, creating an event record, and methods of using the systemdescribed herein.

In an exemplary method of using the system to record a depositionsession, the system is set up at a location. The camera is positionedrelative to the deponent and/or orientation of the deponent to anyevidence or sight direction as appropriate or desired. In an exemplaryembodiment, the camera is arranged such that the deponent is centeredand aligned such that when the picture in picture is used with a secondcamera system, the recorded deponent video image appears to be directedtoward the picture in picture of the evidence the deponent is reviewing.The rest of the system is deployed by turning on the system, connectingthe appropriate cables between the modules, and opening and deployingone or more of the modules.

When the deposition is initiated, the videographer starts the variousrecording devices simultaneously by pressing a one-button start/stopinput. The one button input sends signals through the one or moremodular connections to each of the audio and video recorders. Acontemplated system connects a switcher module into the primary modulesuch that the switcher module is controlled by the one-button start/stoptechnology, starting and stopping all connected video recorderssimultaneously, which allows the video operator to go on and off therecord quickly and efficiently with confidence, and reduces the chanceof a recording error.

In an exemplary method of real time editing of a video recording, thevideographer may select one or more video sources to record, and/or oneor more display configurations. For example, the videographer may selectthe deponent video feed as a primary video signal, and an evidence videofeed from a secondary camera as a secondary video signal. The system maythen be configured to toggle between a video signal of just the deponentin full screen or a picture in picture arrangement with the deponent andthe evidence together. When the topic of discussion moves away from theevidence, the videographer may select to return to just the deponentvideo feed. The method of real time editing of a video recording, mayalso include selecting combinations of one or more audio channels forrecording.

Exemplary embodiments of using the system may include real timepresentation and manipulation of displayed evidence. When evidence isdisplayed to a deponent, the evidence may be positioned within the lineof sight of a secondary camera. When ready the videographer and/orattorney may manipulate one or more controls on the primary module,switcher module, third module, video device, remote control device,secondary camera and any combination thereof to display the image on theone or more displays. The selection of display may be integrated with orseparate from the picture in picture recording. Therefore, the selectionto display the evidence on the display may also initiate the picture inpicture recording. Alternatively, these controls may be separate.Through manipulation of a control console, remote control device,display device, third module, switcher module, or other controller, thedisplayed image from the secondary image source or camera may bemanipulated on screen. For example, the image may be zoomed, moved,rotated, annotated, etc. The deponent, attorney, court reporter,videographer, or a combination thereof may save images for capturinginto the record. The system may also be configured to mark saved imageswith Exhibit identifiers or numbers.

Exemplary embodiments described herein may also be used to generate adeposition event record of the proceeding. The deposition event recordmay include a computer spreadsheet log that is controlled by a HID(Human Interface Device) and converts one or more commands through theone or more modules or system components into automatic electronic logentries. For example, the system may automatically log deposition eventsincluding “on the record”, “off the record”, “display exhibit”, “removeexhibit”, “audio channel one”, “audio channel two”, and otherprogrammable entries for events such as when an entry indicating anattorney speaking over the deponent and a need to redact the interferingaudio at a future time and any other pertinent events helpful tocreating a complete record. Some of the event records may be directlyassociated or tied to one or more controls of the modular system. Forexample, when the one button system is used to start and stop therecorders, an automatic on or off record stamp is logged. Since all ofthe recorders are synchronized to the same start/stop through the onebutton initiation, the same time reference may be used to associate atime stamp to the respective event. The primary, switch, or thirdmodules may also include one or more programmable event recordingoptions. For example, one or more buttons may be reserved on the primarymodule or switcher module control panel to permit a user to identifyingother events of interest. The system may permit a user to enter a key ordescription to associate text with the event or may simply record ageneric reference to each of the buttons, which may be annotated orupdated later.

Although embodiments of this invention have been fully described withreference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that variouschanges and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in theart. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as beingincluded within the scope of embodiments of this invention as defined bythe appended claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A modular recording system, comprising: aprimary console having a primary housing containing: a display, a videocamera control, and a recording device; and a video camera connectableto the primary console such that the video camera control controls thevideo camera from the primary console and remotely from the videocamera.
 2. The modular recording system of claim 1, further comprising:a switcher console having a switcher housing containing: a video input;a video input control for controlling a video input device coupled tothe video input, and a second recording device to record a signalrelated to that received from the video input. wherein the switcherconsole is configured to communicatively couple to the primary console.3. The modular recording system of claim 2, further comprising a videoinput device.
 4. The modular recording system of claim 3, furthercomprising: a display console, including two or more display devices,wherein the two or more display devices are configured to display animage received from the video input device.
 5. The modular recordingsystem of claim 4, wherein the two or more display devices comprisetouch screens configured to permit annotation of a displayed image whentouched.
 6. The modular recording system of claim 5, wherein at leastone of the two or more display devices comprise control regions whereineach of control region is configured to perform a function when touchedby a user.
 7. The modular recording system of claim 6, wherein the twoor more display devices are configured to receive one of two inputs fromeither a selectable video input source or a static input source, suchthat the two or more displays show a feed from the selectable videoinput source or a static image.
 8. The modular recording system of claim6, wherein the display console comprises a housing containing a mountingsystem for the two or more display devices, switcher electronics toselect one of the two inputs to the two or more display devices, anannotation module configured to permit the annotation of a displayedimage on one or more of display devices.
 9. The modular recording systemof claim 8, wherein the display console is configured to support atleast four video inputs.
 10. The modular recording system of claim 9,wherein the at least four video inputs include a camera input, a tabletinput, laptop input, and combinations thereof.
 11. The modular recordingsystem of claim 4, wherein the primary console comprises a single actioncontroller to permit simultaneous initiation of the recording device andthe second recording device with a single action of a user.
 12. Themodular recording system of claim 11, wherein the primary consolecomprises a backup recorder, and the switcher console comprises a secondback up recorder, and the single action controller comprises a buttonconfigured to simultaneously start and simultaneously stop the recordingdevice, the second recording device, the backup recorder, and the secondbackup recorder with successive depressions of the button.
 13. Themodular recording system of claim 12, wherein the recording device andbackup recorder are configured to record a video stream from the videocamera, and wherein the second backup recorder is configured to record asecond video stream from the video input, and the second recorder isconfigured to record an edited in real time video stream composed of thevideo stream, the second video stream, and combinations thereof.
 14. Themodular recording system of claim 12, wherein the primary consolefurther comprises an audio mixer, and an audio recorder, wherein thevideo camera control includes controls for adjusting tip angle,rotation, and zoom, a plurality of grouped connectors for providinginput, output, power, and a combination thereof to one or morecomponents to be coupled.
 15. The modular recording system of claim 12,wherein the system comprises a video selection control for real timeselecting of video inputs for creation of an intermediate productionvideo, wherein the video selection control permits selection forrecording a video signal received from the video camera, and a picturein picture selection for recording a combination video signal receivedfrom the video camera and the video input.
 16. The modular recordingsystem of claim 12, wherein the video input device is a camera and theswitcher console comprises a control for controlling a direction andzoom of the video input device, the switcher console also comprises acontrol of the two or more display devices including selecting whetherto display the image received from the video input device, and theswitcher console also comprises a control for selecting one or more of aplurality of video inputs to create a real time edited video stream. 17.The modular recording system of claim 12, wherein the modular recordingsystem is configured to create an event record of one or more actionsoccurring during a recording session.
 18. The modular recording systemof claim 17, wherein the event record includes indications of whenevidence was presented to a deponent during a deposition, when an audiochannel includes multiple sources, and combinations thereof.